Connector Assembly Sealing and Alignment for Flow Restricting Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow restricting apparatuses face challenges in creating a reliable, fluid-tight connection with outlet conduits, which is crucial for preventing flooding during heavy rainfall or runoff, and for maintaining equipment protection.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly comprising a first member with a bore and a second member with a projection, designed to align and seal with the outlet conduit, ensuring a fluid-tight connection by using sealing means such as gaskets or projections to facilitate engagement and prevent fluid leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a connector assembly uses sealing means such as gaskets or projections to create a fluid-tight connection, then the reliability of preventing fluid leakage is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly integrates multiple functions into nested components: the first member engages with the flow restricting apparatus outlet, the second member connects to the outlet conduit, and sealing means are positioned intermediate these members. The bores of both members align to create a continuous fluid pathway while the projection and receiving portion provide mechanical alignment and retention, nesting multiple functions (sealing, alignment, connection) within a compact assembly structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly acts as an intermediary component between the flow restricting apparatus and the outlet conduit. The first member serves as an intermediary that engages with the apparatus outlet, while the second member intermediates the connection to the conduit. The sealing means positioned intermediate the first and second members provides mediation to ensure fluid-tight connection, allowing the system to achieve reliable sealing without requiring direct engagement between the apparatus and conduit.
2Ease of operation
If the connector assembly provides a secure, removable connection for easy maintenance, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of maintaining a fluid-tight seal may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is segmented into separable members: the first member that engages with the flow restricting apparatus and the second member that connects to the outlet conduit. This segmentation allows the assembly to be disassembled for maintenance while maintaining fluid-tight sealing when connected. The projection and receiving portion design enables easy engagement and disengagement, and the sealing means is positioned to maintain seal integrity during both connected and separated states.
3Productivity
If the bores of the first and second members are aligned to facilitate fluid flow, then the productivity of fluid restriction function is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly uses asymmetric features including the projection extending from the second member and the corresponding receiving portion on the first member. This asymmetric design provides built-in alignment guidance that ensures the bores of both members align correctly during assembly. The projection fits into the receiving portion in a specific orientation, automatically aligning the bores for optimal fluid flow without requiring high-precision manufacturing tolerances.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The connector assembly effectively restricts fluid flow, protects downstream equipment from flooding, and allows for easy maintenance by providing a secure, removable connection between the flow restricting apparatus and the outlet conduit.
Implementation Method 1
sealing means for sealing positioned intermediate the first member and the second member
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for a flow restricting apparatus is disclosed. The flow restricting apparatus comprises an outlet configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet conduit. The connector assembly comprises a first member configured to be engaged with the flow restricting apparatus at least partially about the outlet. The first member comprises a first face, a second face, and a bore defined through the first member. The connector assembly comprises a second member comprising a first side, a second side, a bore defined through the second member, at least one projection extending outwardly from the first side of the second member, and sealing means for sealing positioned intermediate the first member and the second member. The at least one projection forms a receiving portion configured to receive a portion of the first member.